Arlington Bicycle Accident Lawyer Who Gets What It’s Like on the Road Every Day
Cycling around Arlington can be incredible. With beautiful trails, expanding bike lanes, and a strong biking community, Arlington is a fantastic place to ride. But if you’re an Arlington cyclist, you know the risks are all too real. I understand this personally—not just as an Arlington bicycle accident lawyer, but as someone who’s witnessed firsthand how devastating bike crashes can be.
Whether it’s a driver speeding through the 395 exchange in Shirlington or cutting off cyclists on Wilson Boulevard near Courthouse, Arlington roads can be dangerous. Allyson started Kitchel Law because she knows what cyclists face here. When her husband was seriously injured in a bike crash, it made her realize just how critical it is to have a bicycle accident lawyer in Arlington VA who truly gets it. She knew she wanted to fight for cyclists and others dealing with life-altering injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. We're here to stand up for you—not just in court but to help make life a little easier for you and your family while you heal.
No amount of money can change what happened. But we can promise that we’ll work tirelessly to help you get justice, support your recovery, and ensure you have what you need to move forward. You deserve the confidence of knowing you did everything possible to handle a tough situation in the best way.
When’s the Right Time to Call an Arlington Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, especially in Arlington, it’s completely understandable if deciding whether to bring in a lawyer feels overwhelming. Timing can make a difference, but each situation is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Now, if this accident happened on Arlington Boulevard—that’s a hotspot. Arlington Boulevard is a major corridor with a relatively high number of severe injury and fatal crashes, and it’s part of Arlington’s High-Injury Network (HIN). This means it’s an area the county has flagged for serious incidents, and they’re actively studying and working on making it safer. But in the meantime, for those injured in this area, getting legal support quickly from an Arlington bike lawyer can be crucial. Things like security footage, witness statements, and dash cam recordings from surrounding vehicles can fade fast, especially in high-traffic zones like this.
If you’re dealing with complex injuries or there’s any question of who was at fault, it can help to get started sooner rather than later to ensure we capture everything we need to make a solid case. Acting fast can put us in the best position to hold responsible parties accountable.
Of course, if everything seems clear and law enforcement has pieced together what happened, you don’t have to rush. Virginia law gives you two years to file a personal injury claim, so there’s time to weigh your options and decide what’s best for you and your family.
Wherever you are on this journey, we’re here to guide you through each step so you can focus on recovery. With all the stress and challenges that follow an accident, our team is here to shoulder the legal work so you can get back on track. We’ve got your back every step of the way.
Why Hiring an Arlington Bicycle Accident Lawyer Matters
If you’re a cyclist who spends any time on Arlington’s streets, you know that a bike accident can be life-altering. After an accident, dealing with the legal side of things is likely the last thing you want to tackle—but it’s something that has to be done to protect your rights. Gathering evidence, handling insurance adjusters with their “generous offers,” and coordinating with police and medical providers is all part of the process. Trying to juggle that while you’re supposed to be recovering? It’s overwhelming.
Insurance companies are often all too ready to push lowball settlements, knowing that you’re exhausted and just want to move on. And then there’s that lingering worry—wondering if you’re really getting what you deserve or if you’re being taken advantage of. Kitchel Law gets it. Our team steps in to make sure you have the peace of mind that you’re not facing this battle alone.
This work means something deeper for Allyson, who has personal experience with what it takes to recover after a bike accident. When her husband was badly injured in a crash, Allyson was a defense attorney, seeing the “other side” of these cases every day. Watching his recovery, she learned firsthand how important it is to have someone who genuinely cares fighting in your corner. Knowing he had someone to stand up for him made a huge difference during that chaotic time, and that experience is a major reason she opened her own practice. Kitchel Law was built to be that same dedicated support for cyclists facing life after an accident as a northern Virginia bicycle accident lawyer.
Why Choose Kitchel Law? Because We Understand Cyclists
Taking the step to hire a lawyer can feel big, maybe even intimidating. You might wonder about the cost or think you might be able to handle things on your own. Allyson understands those thoughts—she’s had them herself. But here’s the reality: the legal process is often more complex than it looks from the outside. Insurance companies know how to protect their own interests, and without someone there to protect yours, it’s easy to end up shortchanged.
From the moment you reach out to Kitchel Law, the team takes on all the details so you can focus on what matters—your recovery, your family, and getting your life back on track. Kitchel Law is here to ensure you don’t have to wonder if you could have gotten a better outcome.
What Kitchel Law Can Do for You
Once Kitchel Law steps in, the team handles every call, every document, and every detail of your case. They know this isn’t just “paperwork”—it’s your life, health, and peace of mind. You’ll be kept in the loop the entire way, so you’re never left guessing about your case. With Kitchel Law, you get a team that’s not just handling the legal angles but is genuinely invested in your recovery.
Let Kitchel Law take on the legal challenges so you can focus on healing. While no amount of compensation can undo what’s happened, the team will work tirelessly to help you find justice, support your recovery, and give you the confidence that you handled things the best way possible.
Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Arlington
Allyson and the Kitchel Law team understand what cyclists face every day on Arlington’s roads. With experience as a cyclist, Allyson doesn’t just know the dangers—she feels them. There was even a time when she saw her own husband hit by a car, only to have the driver yell at him to “get off the road.” That moment hit hard, underscoring the real risks cyclists face and the vulnerability of sharing the road.
One of the first things Allyson tells clients after a crash is this: it wasn’t an “accident.” Crashes don’t just happen—something goes wrong, and knowing the common causes is key to understanding the risks and holding drivers accountable when they fail to respect cyclists’ rights.
Here’s what our team at Kitchel Law sees as the most common ways cyclists in Arlington get hurt:
-
The “Door Prize” - Cyclists who’ve spent any time on Arlington Boulevard or in the neighborhoods around Clarendon know the risk of riding past parked cars. Just one person flinging open a door without looking can mean a direct collision that no cyclist can avoid. The injuries? Broken bones, head trauma, and serious bruising. Drivers need to check their mirrors, but too often, they simply don’t.
-
Left Hook/Right Hook - These are some of the most dangerous moves drivers can make near cyclists. A “left hook” happens when an oncoming car suddenly turns left into the cyclist’s path, giving the cyclist almost no time to react. A “right hook” happens when a car passes a cyclist on the left, then turns right in front of them, cutting them off completely. Both of these moves can lead to serious injuries, often throwing the cyclist off their bike and onto the pavement.
-
Lane Incursions - Cyclists in Arlington have the right to ride in bike lanes, share the road, and even use certain sidewalks. However, some drivers either don’t know or choose to ignore these rights. When cars drift into bike lanes, it forces cyclists into dangerous situations or off the road entirely. The injuries from these encounters range from fractures to traumatic brain injuries and lasting scars.
-
Intersection Collisions (T-Bone/Angle) - Intersections are common crash spots. Drivers who run red lights or roll through stop signs can end up hitting cyclists crossing the intersection, resulting in T-bone or angle crashes. These types of collisions are particularly dangerous, often leading to broken limbs, spinal injuries, and other severe trauma.
Each of these situations is a reminder of how exposed cyclists are on the road. If you or someone you know has experienced any of these risks, Kitchel Law is here to help. As both cyclists and legal advocates, Allyson and her team believe cyclists shouldn’t just have to accept these risks as “part of riding.” No, compensation can’t undo what’s happened, but Kitchel Law will work tirelessly to help you seek justice, support your recovery, and move forward with confidence, knowing every step was taken to protect yourself and others.
Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Arlington
Allyson and the Kitchel Law team have seen how serious these injuries can be, especially when it comes to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs are one of the most severe injuries cyclists face, and sadly, they’re responsible for many bicycle-related fatalities. According to the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, thousands of people suffer from TBIs in bike accidents each year, including young kids who were just out for a ride.
One thing Allyson always stresses to clients: brain injuries don’t always show up immediately. Often, they’re overlooked at first, and the full impact might not come to light until days or even weeks later. After a crash, it’s easy to brush off the pain or skip that trip to the ER, but sometimes the severity of an injury isn’t clear right away.
Other common injuries cyclists in Arlington face include:
- Head Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones and Fractures
- Soft Tissue Damage
- Internal Organ Damage
- Facial Disfigurement or Scarring
These injuries can be life-changing, requiring both immediate care and long-term treatment. Kitchel Law is here to help ensure that Arlington cyclists get the medical care and legal support needed to recover and rebuild. When injuries like these happen, Allyson and her team are ready to stand by you, every step of the way.
Types of Damages in an Arlington Bicycle Crash Claim
When a cyclist in Arlington gets into a crash, the damage often goes far beyond a broken bike or a few scrapes. Allyson and the Kitchel Law team know that recovery can be costly and overwhelming—physically, financially, and emotionally. The good news? The law allows injured cyclists to seek compensation for these impacts, covering both financial losses and the pain and challenges that follow. Here’s how that breaks down:
-
Medical Expenses - A bike crash can lead to a range of injuries that affect every corner of your life—from head injuries and fractures to spinal trauma and more. Allyson has seen firsthand how critical it is for injured cyclists to get fully compensated for medical expenses. This includes everything: emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and even necessary equipment. And if ongoing care is in the picture, Kitchel Law will ensure that’s covered, too.
-
Lost Income - Missing work because of an injury isn’t just inconvenient—it can throw your financial stability off balance. Compensation for lost income should cover missed workdays, benefits, bonuses, and future earning potential if the injuries have a long-term impact. If your ability to work is altered for the foreseeable future, you deserve compensation for that financial hit as well. Kitchel Law will fight to make sure all aspects of your lost income are considered.
-
Property Damage - Cyclists know that a bike, helmet, and other gear aren’t just equipment—they’re investments. Damages in a bike crash claim should cover the repair or replacement of your bike, helmet, and any other personal items lost in the crash. This might seem small next to medical bills, but it’s a meaningful part of restoring what was lost.
-
Pain and Suffering - The physical and emotional toll from a crash goes beyond the visible injuries. Many crash survivors experience emotional distress and long-lasting pain that alters daily life. Compensation for pain and suffering is meant to address this, even though it’s tough to put a number on. Allyson and her team will work to make sure that your entire experience, including the pain and trauma, is understood and valued.
-
Wrongful Death - Losing a loved one in a bike crash is a devastating experience. While no compensation can replace them, a wrongful death claim can help a grieving family find a sense of justice and hold the responsible party accountable.
At Kitchel Law, Allyson and the team know that compensation isn’t just about numbers on a page; it’s about recognizing the real impact a crash has on your life and making sure you have the support needed to move forward. If you or a loved one has been affected, Kitchel Law is here to help you seek the justice and recovery you deserve.
How Much Does an Arlington Bicycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
Nothing upfront.
Allyson and the team at Kitchel Law understand the weight of dealing with recovery, pain, and financial stress after a bike accident. The last thing cyclists in Arlington should worry about is paying for the legal help needed to get fair compensation.
Here’s how Kitchel Law handles costs:
-
No Upfront Costs - Working with Kitchel Law costs nothing upfront. We work on a contingency basis, which means Allyson and her team only get paid if they recover compensation for you.
-
Percentage-Based Fee - The fee typically ranges from 33-40% of the settlement, depending on the specifics of the case. Allyson believes in transparency, so this fee structure is shared from day one—no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
-
No Financial Risk - If Kitchel Law doesn’t win the case, you owe nothing. There’s no risk of getting a bill for seeking justice or taking a stand after an accident.
Certain cases may come with additional costs, like court fees or expert witnesses, but Kitchel Law covers these upfront. You only reimburse the firm if the case is successful, and they’ll walk you through any potential costs before starting. The goal? Honest, straightforward support that lets you focus on healing and moving forward—while Kitchel Law handles the rest.
Why Choose Kitchel Law as Your Arlington Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
Experience Rooted in Personal Understanding
Allyson and the Kitchel Law team understand Arlington’s streets firsthand. As cyclists, they know what it’s like to navigate tight lanes, share space with drivers who don’t always give enough room, and face the reality of how vulnerable cyclists are on the road. Allyson has also seen the aftermath of serious bike crashes up close, both personally and professionally. That’s why she founded Kitchel Law—to stand up for cyclists in Arlington and ensure they have someone who truly understands and is dedicated to getting them the help they deserve.
With over two decades of experience, Allyson brings not just legal expertise but a real commitment to helping people rebuild their lives. Arlington has always been a home base for Kitchel Law, and Allyson’s career began right in the heart of the DC legal community as a clerk at the DC Superior Court. She knows the ins and outs of the local courts and understands the unique challenges cyclists face. At Kitchel Law, every case is handled with both skill and heart, making sure clients feel supported every step of the way.
Insight from Both Sides of the Law
Before dedicating herself to personal injury, Allyson spent years defending drivers and medical professionals. This “other side” experience taught her a lot about how insurance companies think—and the strategies they use to minimize claims. Today, she uses that background to anticipate and counter these moves, building strong, proactive cases that defend cyclists’ rights from the start.
Allyson’s experience on both sides of the law allows her to shape cases in a way that resonates with judges and juries, ultimately giving her clients a stronger chance at justice. At Kitchel Law, it’s not just about winning cases—it’s about making sure every cyclist has an advocate who truly gets the challenges they face on Arlington’s roads.
Personal Attention & Communication
At Kitchel Law, every case we take on feels personal because, to us, it’s not just a file—it’s a chance to make a real impact in someone’s life. Allyson has been through this firsthand, having supported her own family through the challenges of a bike accident. That experience gave her a deep understanding of how much it means to have someone truly in your corner. Our team is here to make sure you feel supported, both legally and personally, every step of the way.
Communication is at the heart of what we do. We’re committed to keeping you informed throughout your case, so you’re never left in the dark. Allyson and the team will update you at every turn, making sure no detail is missed and allowing you to focus on healing while we focus on getting you justice.
Client-Centered Service
Every client and every case has its own story, and we approach each one with a focus on what you need. Whether it’s meeting in person to hand you your settlement check, recording conversations so you have a reference, helping to sort through insurance claims, or simply being there to check in, our job is to support you in ways that matter. Sometimes, it even means going the extra mile—like delivering a meal if that’s what helps.
You’re not just a case to us—you’re a priority. Our goal is to let you focus on what truly matters, like healing and spending time with your loved ones, while we handle the legal side. Giving you peace of mind isn’t just our job; it’s what we’re dedicated to. Kitchel Law is here to be the steady presence you can rely on through every part of the journey.
Proven Results, Trusted Reputation
Allyson is honored to be recognized as a "Super Lawyer" in DC and to hold an AV Preeminent rating for excellence and ethics. Being named a top personal injury attorney by Northern Virginia Magazine is a recognition that means a lot, especially because it reflects the trust local families place in our work. While these accolades are special to us, what truly matters is that they’re a reflection of the dedication we bring to each case.
One case especially close to Allyson’s heart is when she represented the family of DeAngelo Green—a dedicated father tragically killed in an accident involving a DC fire truck. That case wasn’t just about achieving a $13.5 million verdict; it was about standing by his family for six long years, helping them find justice and the acknowledgment they deserved. It’s cases like these that remind us why we do what we do—to stand by families in their hardest times and to fight for the justice they deserve.
When you choose Kitchel Law, you’re choosing a team with decades of experience, proven results, and an unwavering commitment to families in Arlington. We’re here to stand by you, just as we’ve stood by others, because everyone deserves justice and the chance to move forward with peace of mind.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and aren’t sure where to start, Allyson and the Kitchel Law team understand. They’ve been there.
When Allyson’s own family faced the aftermath of a traumatic accident, she saw firsthand how much it helps to have someone in your corner who truly understands—not just the legal details, but the emotional weight, too. That’s a big reason she founded Kitchel Law—to be that supportive, knowledgeable ally for people facing tough times who need real help.
At Kitchel Law, Allyson is here to hear your story, walk you through your options, and handle the legal side so you can focus on what’s most important: healing, supporting your family, and finding a way forward.
To get started, call 202-949-7109, email [email protected], or fill out the online form below.
And with Kitchel Law, there’s no upfront cost—payment only happens if the case is won.
Let Kitchel Law handle the legal stress, so you can find the confidence and peace of mind you deserve. The team will get through this with you, every step of the way.